CN115867174A

CN115867174A - Liquid heating appliance

Info

Publication number: CN115867174A
Application number: CN202180049618.5A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 科林·彼得·莫顿; S·J·唐隆; C·凯; 雅各布·亚历山大·约翰·休因斯
Original assignee: Srix Guangzhou Electrical Appliances Co ltd; Strix Ltd
Current assignee: Sirex China Electric Co ltd
Priority date: 2020-07-10
Filing date: 2021-07-09
Publication date: 2023-03-28
Also published as: EP4178399A1; GB2596866B; GB202010684D0; US20230255389A1; WO2022008928A1; CA3188920A1; GB2596866A; AU2021306693A1

Abstract

A liquid heating appliance (2) comprising: a reservoir (4) comprising a first chamber (32) and a second chamber (34) separated by a partition (36), and heating means arranged to heat liquid within the first chamber (32). A mode valve (38) is provided to selectively allow liquid flow between the first chamber (32) and the second chamber (34). The appliance (2) operates in a first mode in which the mode valve (38) is closed and only the liquid in the first chamber (32) is heated and in a second mode in which the mode valve (38) is open and the liquid in both the first chamber (32) and the second chamber (34) is heated. The dispensing outlet (18) is movable between a dispensing position in which liquid is allowed to be dispensed from the first chamber (32) and a non-dispensing position in which liquid cannot be dispensed. The dispensing outlet (18) is mechanically coupled to the mode valve (38) such that when the dispensing outlet (18) is moved to the dispensing position, the mechanical coupling closes the mode valve (38) and when the dispensing outlet (18) is moved to the non-dispensing position, the mechanical coupling opens the valve.

Description

Liquid heating appliance

Technical Field

The present invention relates to liquid heating appliances, and more particularly to a liquid heating appliance capable of selectively heating a small amount of liquid.

Background

Liquid heating appliances, such as kettles, are common in many households. The kettle can be used to heat water to boiling, typically up to a volume of 1.7 litres. However, users often need to heat only a relatively small amount of water, for example if they are making a single cup of hot beverage. Depending on the particular jug used, it may be difficult to fill the jug with the correct amount of water for a single cup of beverage, and therefore the jug is often overfilled. This overfilling results in more energy being required to heat the volume of water to the desired temperature. Since water kettles usually have a fixed power output, this ultimately results in the user having to wait longer for the water to reach the desired temperature. Furthermore, this not only means that the user has to wait longer, but the extra energy required to heat the excess volume of water is often wasted, as the excess water is usually left in the kettle to cool. The kettles are commonly used many times daily by millions of people worldwide, and therefore the amount of energy wasted heating unused quantities of water is significant.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention seeks to provide an improved appliance, and viewed from a first aspect the present invention provides a liquid heating appliance comprising:

a reservoir comprising a first chamber disposed below a second chamber and separated by a partition extending therebetween,

a heating device arranged, in use, to heat liquid contained within the first chamber;

a mode valve disposed in the partition to selectively allow liquid to flow between the first and second chambers, wherein the appliance is arranged to be operable in a first mode in which the mode valve is closed and only liquid within the first chamber is heated, and a second mode in which the mode valve is open and liquid within both the first and second chambers is heated by the heating device;

a dispensing outlet disposed on an outer wall of the appliance and movable between a dispensing position in which the dispensing outlet is in fluid communication with the first chamber to allow liquid to be dispensed from the first chamber during the first mode and a non-dispensing position in which liquid cannot be dispensed; wherein the dispensing outlet is mechanically coupled to the mode valve such that when the dispensing outlet is moved to the dispensing position, the mechanical coupling causes the mode valve to close and when the dispensing outlet is moved to the non-dispensing position, the mechanical coupling causes the mode valve to open.

Thus, the liquid heating appliance may be operated in two different modes. The liquid heating appliance may be operated in a first mode with the mode valve closed, i.e. a "hot cup" mode, in which it is used to dispense a fixed volume of liquid directly from the first chamber through the dispensing outlet. In this mode, the appliance can rapidly heat smaller volumes of liquid when needed. The appliance may also be operated in a second mode with the mode valve open. The second mode, in which the mode valve is in an open position, may be considered to correspond to a "kettle" mode, as all of the water in the appliance will be heated. In the second mode, the dispensing outlet is in a non-dispensing position and liquid cannot be dispensed from the dispensing outlet. Instead, the liquid can be poured out of the appliance, for example through the container mouth. The user can select the type of operation by controlling the position of the mode valve depending on the volume of heated liquid they desire. The ability to selectively heat smaller volumes of liquid can reduce the amount of energy wasted in heating large volumes of unused water.

By coupling the dispensing outlet with the mode valve, the operating mode of the appliance can be controlled by the relative position of the dispensing outlet. This may provide a convenient means for controlling the operation of the appliance. Furthermore, the use of a dispensing outlet to control operation may be a particularly intuitive means of controlling the operation of the appliance. Further, the location of the dispensing outlet may provide an indication to the user in which mode the appliance is configured to operate. For example, when the dispensing outlet is in the dispensing position, the user may easily determine that the appliance is configured to operate in the first mode. The mechanical coupling may comprise, for example, a mechanical linkage.

For example, the dispensing position may correspond to the dispensing outlet protruding from the appliance, while the non-dispensing position may correspond to the dispensing outlet retracted from the appliance. Thus, the dispensing outlet may be arranged to selectively project, slide, pivot or rotate from a dispensing position to a non-dispensing position, or vice versa. The dispensing outlet may be arranged at any suitable location on the appliance. For example, the dispensing outlet may be arranged on a side wall of the appliance. This may conveniently allow a user to easily dispense from the appliance, for example into a container such as a cup or mug. The dispensing outlet may be resiliently biased towards a dispensing position and/or a non-dispensing position. Resiliently biasing the dispensing outlet may help to ensure that the dispensing outlet remains in its respective position even if the appliance is moved. For example, when operating in the second mode, the jug mode, the appliance may be lifted and tilted. Resiliently biasing the dispensing outlet may help ensure that the dispensing outlet remains in the non-dispensing position when the appliance is lifted and tilted. Further, resiliently biasing the dispensing outlet to one or both of the two positions may help to ensure that the dispensing outlet fully reaches its intended position when moved. Resiliently biasing the dispensing outlet into the dispensing position may allow the dispensing outlet to be more easily moved into the dispensing position.

In a first mode of operation, i.e. hot cup mode of operation, with the mode valve closed, the heating means will raise the temperature of the liquid in the first chamber when operated. Since the liquid in the first chamber cannot escape, its temperature will continue to rise. As the temperature rises and eventually reaches boiling, the pressure in the first chamber will increase. This pressure may be used as a means of forcing the liquid out of the first chamber towards the dispensing outlet. Of course, additional or alternative means for dispensing may be provided, such as a pump arranged to draw hot water from the first chamber.

When the mode valve is open, i.e. the appliance is operated in the second mode, the liquid in the first chamber will be heated and convection will be generated when the heating means is operated, e.g. powered. Convection will cause heated liquid to flow from the first chamber and into the second chamber, thereby heating the liquid in the second chamber, while cooler liquid from the second chamber flows into the first chamber to be heated therein. After a sufficient time, the entire volume of liquid in the reservoir will reach boiling.

Although the mode valve is open in the second mode, allowing fluid to flow between the first and second chambers, in some cases heated liquid may be pushed towards the dispensing outlet, depending on the pressure created in the appliance when the liquid is heated. Thus, in one set of embodiments, the appliance further comprises a fluid flow path arranged between the first chamber and the dispensing outlet, wherein the flow path comprises a dispensing valve configured to have at least an open configuration in which liquid can pass through the dispensing valve and a closed configuration in which liquid is inhibited from flowing through the dispensing valve, and wherein the dispensing outlet is coupled to the dispensing valve such that when in the dispensing position the dispensing valve has the open configuration and when in the non-dispensing position the dispensing valve has the closed configuration.

Such a dispensing valve may be used to prevent unwanted liquid from flowing out of the dispensing outlet when the appliance is operated in the second mode. This may be particularly important because without such a dispensing valve, hot liquid may leak through the dispensing outlet, possibly causing injury. The coupling of the dispensing outlet with the dispensing valve is such that the dispensing valve has a closed configuration when the dispensing outlet is in the non-dispensing position for ensuring that the dispensing valve is closed whenever the dispensing outlet is in the non-dispensing position, i.e. when the appliance is in the second mode. This coupling eliminates the need for the user to independently operate the dispensing valve.

The dispensing valve may be any valve adapted to inhibit, i.e. prevent, liquid from flowing out through the dispensing outlet. It does not have to completely close the flow path as long as it prevents liquid from flowing therethrough. The dispensing valve and the dispensing outlet may be coupled by any suitable means. For example, the dispensing outlet may be mechanically coupled to the dispensing valve.

Optionally, the dispensing outlet may be electrically coupled to the dispensing valve. For example, when in the non-dispensing position, the dispensing valve may operate an electrical switch configured to operate the electrically controlled valve.

In one set of embodiments, the dispensing valve includes a length of deformable conduit in the flow path and is configured such that in the closed position, the conduit deforms to prevent liquid flow therethrough. Such a deformable conduit may provide a simple and reliable method for a dispensing valve. The deformable conduit may be deformed directly by the dispensing outlet. For example, the conduit may be attached at one end to the body of the appliance and at a second end to the dispensing outlet. Movement of the dispensing outlet from the dispensing position to the non-dispensing position may cause deformation, e.g. bending, of the deformable conduit such that liquid is no longer able to flow therethrough. The dispensing outlet may comprise any suitable means for achieving this deformation. For example, the deformation may be achieved by a collapsible tube. This collapsing may be caused by the mounting of the conduit and movement of the dispensing outlet. Additionally, or alternatively, the dispensing outlet may be arranged to physically press against the conduit, thereby causing the deformation. For example, the dispensing outlet may comprise a projection configured to act on the conduit when the dispensing outlet is moved to the non-dispensing position.

The manner in which the conduit is deformed may at least partially define whether liquid may pass through the conduit. Thus, control over how the conduit is deformed may be important to ensure that the conduit acts to effectively block the flow of liquid therethrough. Thus, in one set of embodiments, the conduit comprises a region having a reduced wall thickness. The reduced thickness wall segments may reliably deform the conduit in a predictable manner, thereby preventing liquid flow through the conduit. This may thus ensure that the dispensing valve reliably functions to stop the flow of liquid.

In another set of possible overlapping embodiments, the conduit includes at least a first portion having a first cross-section and a second portion having a different second cross-section. Similar to the reduced thickness wall segments, the different cross-sections may be used to more reliably control the location and manner in which the catheter is deformed. For example, the conduit may include a first portion having a circular cross-section and a second portion having an elliptical or circular rectangular cross-section. In the case of an elliptical cross-section, the ellipse may, for example, have a major axis matching the diameter of the circular cross-section, but a minor axis smaller than the diameter of the circular cross-section. Any suitable combination of cross-sections that suitably controls how the catheter is deformed may be used. In embodiments having both a reduced wall thickness and portions of different cross-sections, the reduced wall thickness section may be aligned with a different second cross-section. Thus, this combination may allow for even further control over how the catheter is deformed.

The deformable conduit may be made of any suitable material capable of being repeatedly deformed a plurality of times. In one set of embodiments, the catheter is formed from silicone. The silicone may be cured. Silicone may be particularly suitable due to its resilience to deformation. In other words, the silicone tube can be deformed many times and allows it to return to its original shape, thus making it suitable for use in a household appliance, the operating mode of which can be changed many times during the service life of the appliance.

When operating in the first mode, as described above, liquid may be ejected from the first chamber under vapour pressure. In some cases, the liquid distribution from the first chamber may be turbulent as vapor pressure builds in the first chamber. Thus, in one set of embodiments, the appliance further comprises a dispensing chamber arranged in the fluid flow path between the first chamber and the dispensing outlet such that liquid first passes through the dispensing chamber before flowing out of the dispensing outlet. The distribution chamber provides separate spaces for heated liquid and vapor so that heated liquid can be distributed from the distribution outlet in a more controlled manner with substantially less vapor being distributed with the heated liquid. This may provide a more controlled laminar flow distribution of liquid, potentially safer for the user. For example, the dispensing chamber may comprise a weir over which the liquid must pass before reaching the dispensing outlet. Such a weir can be used to ensure that any cold liquid that has not been dispensed in a previous operation is mixed with the freshly heated liquid prior to dispensing, thereby ensuring that the dispensed liquid is hot. The weir may also be used to ensure that heated liquid and steam reaching the distribution chamber have an opportunity to separate properly before the heated liquid can be distributed, thereby reducing the amount of steam distributed from the distribution outlet.

In embodiments comprising a dispensing chamber and a dispensing valve, the dispensing valve may be arranged upstream or downstream of the dispensing chamber with respect to the flow of heated liquid flowing towards the dispensing outlet. In one set of embodiments, the dispensing valve is located downstream of the dispensing chamber. This may advantageously mean that the dispensing valve also prevents any liquid leaking from the dispensing chamber from flowing out when the appliance is in the second mode of operation. For example, the dispensing chamber may contain small amounts of liquid that were not dispensed during previous hot cup operations, whereas without the dispensing valve, such liquid may leak from the dispensing outlet.

The dispensing chamber may be arranged within the second chamber, preferably in an upper portion thereof. In one set of embodiments, the dispensing chamber comprises a liquid inlet in communication with the first chamber, a first liquid outlet in communication with the dispensing outlet, and a second liquid outlet in communication with the second chamber to allow undispensed liquid to flow back into the second chamber. In another set of embodiments, the dispensing chamber comprises a valve element arranged to selectively close the first liquid outlet or the second liquid outlet. Such a valve element may allow for selectively closing the first liquid outlet, thereby preventing liquid flow to the dispensing outlet, and also for selectively opening and closing the second liquid outlet to control whether liquid is free to flow back into the second chamber. For example, such a valve element may be coupled to a "STOP" button that a user may operate to STOP the dispensing operation in the hot cup mode.

A fluid flow path between the first and second chambers, e.g. a fluid flow channel connecting an outlet on the first chamber to a liquid inlet on the dispensing chamber, may be open in both the first and second operating modes. As a result, some of the heated water may be driven toward the dispensing chamber despite the mode valve opening between the first and second chambers. While in certain embodiments this may eventually be prevented from leaking through the dispensing outlet, for example by the presence of a dispensing valve, when operating in the second mode it may still be desirable to prevent heated liquid from reaching the dispensing chamber to further prevent unwanted liquid from flowing out of the dispensing outlet.

In one set of embodiments, the appliance further comprises a fluid connection conduit connecting the first chamber to the dispensing chamber, and wherein the connection conduit follows a tortuous path. The tortuous path may increase the length of the flow path and thus provide resistance to fluid flow towards the dispensing chamber. When operating in the second mode, i.e. the kettle mode, the total pressure in the appliance is generally low, so that this flow resistance is sufficient to prevent the heated liquid from flowing through the connecting duct. This therefore minimises the ability of water to escape through the dispensing outlet when operating in the second mode. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, when operating in the first mode, i.e. the hot cup mode, the pressure in the first chamber will be sufficient to force the heated liquid through the connecting conduit despite the tortuous path. Thus, the appliance can operate in an optimal manner in both modes.

In one set of embodiments, the tortuous path includes at least a first bend and a second bend arranged to define an s-bend. The first and second bends defining the s-shaped bend may define a trap, which may further assist in preventing liquid from flowing from the first chamber to the dispensing chamber when operating in the second mode. A further advantage of this arrangement is that the outlet on the first chamber to which the connecting conduit is connected and the inlet on the distribution chamber to which the other end of the connecting conduit is connected do not have to be aligned with each other, since the bend can take into account any lateral offset of the outlet and inlet. This may allow more design freedom within the appliance, allowing the outlet in the first chamber and the inlet in the dispensing chamber to be located in the most appropriate positions without being constrained by a connecting conduit extending therebetween. The use of an s-bend is also advantageous because it takes up minimal space within the appliance while still providing effective resistance to the flow of liquid therein.

In one set of embodiments, the liquid heating appliance has a predetermined maximum fill level, and wherein the at least one bend in the tortuous flow path is arranged above the maximum fill level. For example, at least one of the bends may correspond to a first bend of the s-shaped bend. For example, the apex of the at least one bend may be arranged above the maximum filling level.

In order to prevent liquid from leaking out of the appliance as a whole, various seals may be provided between different parts of the appliance. In one set of embodiments, the mechanical coupling comprises a mechanical link extending through an opening in a wall at least partially defining the second chamber, wherein the appliance further comprises a sealing member extending around the mechanical link, wherein a first portion of the sealing member seals around the opening and a second portion of the sealing member seals to the mechanical link, and wherein the sealing member is configured such that the second portion of the sealing member is movable relative to the first portion of the sealing member.

Thus, the sealing member may function to seal the opening, thereby preventing liquid from leaking out of the appliance via the opening. Furthermore, this particular sealing arrangement may also advantageously allow the mechanical linkage to move relatively freely within the opening without compromising the integrity of the seal. For example, with the arrangement described above, the mechanical linkage may not rub against the sealing member at all as the sealing member is moved by the dispensing outlet. Therefore, wear of the seal member can be reduced. Furthermore, unlike other possible sealing arrangements, such as an O-ring seal through which the mechanical linkage will pass and be in intimate contact therewith, the movement of the mechanical linkage according to the present embodiment may not be impeded by the sealing member. Since the second part is movable relative to the first part, the mechanical link may move more freely relative to the opening. This helps to ensure that the force required to move the dispensing outlet is kept as small as possible, thereby ensuring that the appliance is easy to operate.

Furthermore, the use of the sealing member allows for greater design freedom in the manner in which the mechanical linkage connects the dispensing outlet and the mode valve. For example, the sealing member may allow for lateral movement as well as vertical movement of the mechanical linkage. This may therefore allow for improved action of the mechanical linkage, allowing it to function more efficiently.

The first and second portions of the valve member may correspond to the first and second ends of the valve member, respectively. Movement of the second portion of the valve member relative to the first portion may be achieved in any suitable manner. For example, the sealing member between the first and second portions may be resilient so as to allow the second portion to move relative to the first portion secured around the opening. In one set of embodiments, the sealing member includes a bellows structure configured to allow the second portion to move relative to the first portion. The corrugated arrangement may conveniently allow movement in a number of different directions whilst also providing minimal resistance to such movement. Such a corrugated structure may also increase the life of the sealing member, as it does not necessarily require stretching, which may otherwise cause stress in the material of the sealing member. The corrugations may have any number of waves of any suitable relative size.

The sealing member may be attached around the opening and to the mechanical linkage in any suitable manner. In one set of embodiments, the mechanical linkage includes a slot into which the second portion of the sealing member engages. The slot in the mechanical linkage may provide a convenient means for securing the sealing member to the mechanical linkage during assembly of the appliance. The groove may also help ensure that the sealing member remains securely fastened to the mechanical linkage, thereby ensuring that the sealing member maintains its ability to effectively seal the opening even as the mechanical linkage moves through its range of motion. The sealing member may be made of any suitable material, such as silicone.

When the appliance is operating in the first mode, i.e. the hot cup mode, the appliance may utilize the increase in pressure in the first chamber to expel heated liquid from the first chamber towards the dispensing outlet, as described above. However, depending on the particular form of the mode valve, this increase in pressure may also be used to apply a force tending to open the mode valve. As will be appreciated, if the mode valve is open during operation in the first mode, the pressure in the first chamber may drop and heated liquid may not be forced towards the dispensing outlet. Thus, in one set of embodiments, the appliance further comprises a latch arrangement configured to hold the mode valve in the closed position. Thus, the latching device may be used to hold the mode valve in the closed position and thus resist any opening force applied by the pressure increase. This may advantageously facilitate the presence of a mode valve which in the second mode of operation allows a greater flow of water between the first and second chambers, i.e. a mode valve with a larger opening, which would otherwise not be possible, since the valve would be too easy to open when operating in the first mode. This increased liquid circulation capability, when operating in the second mode, may improve the operation of the appliance in the second mode, allowing it to heat the liquid contained therein in a more efficient manner. Keeping the mode valve closed will also ensure that the appliance can operate most efficiently in the first mode of operation without risk of the mode valve undesirably releasing pressure from the first chamber to the second chamber.

The latching means may for example comprise a resiliently biased latching member. For example, the latch member may be moved out of the latched position when the mode valve is moved to its closed position, and the latch member is biased back to the latched position once the mode valve reaches its fully closed position.

To move the mode valve to the open position, the latch may need to be released. In one set of embodiments, the latch arrangement is configured to be released by movement of the dispensing outlet from the dispensing position to the non-dispensing position. Such an arrangement may provide a convenient means for the latching means to be released by a user in a single action when changing the mode of the appliance through the dispensing outlet. The release may be achieved by applying a sufficient force to the dispensing outlet and the mode valve may release the latch means. However, in one set of embodiments, the latch device is configured to be released by a mechanical coupling. By suitable design of the mechanical coupling, e.g. the mechanical linkage and its way of interaction with the latching mechanism, the latching mechanism can be released with a minimum force applied to the dispensing outlet. The latch arrangement may be released by operating a release member for releasing a latch within the latch arrangement.

Although a single latch arrangement has been described above, any number of latches may be included. For example, the latching device may latch the mode valve in multiple positions to ensure that it remains in the closed position.

The mode valve itself may be any suitable valve for controlling fluid flow between the first and second chambers. The mode valve need not be a single valve, but may include multiple valves. In one set of embodiments, the mode valve comprises a flap valve. Such a flap valve may provide a valve that can be easily implemented within the spatial constraints of a liquid heating appliance. Furthermore, the flap valve may be particularly suitable for being operated by a mechanical linkage, and thus the internal structure of the appliance may be simplified, thereby minimizing manufacturing costs. In one set of embodiments, the flap valve includes a valve member pivotable at a pivot point and arranged to cooperate with a corresponding valve seat in the partition to close the flap valve and prevent liquid flow therethrough.

In one set of embodiments, the valve member is an annular valve member and has a u-shaped cross-section. The use of an annular valve member may allow for another valve, such as a float valve, to be arranged in the centre of the diaphragm, i.e. in the space defined by the annular valve member. The diaphragm may have a conical profile and the further valve may be disposed at an apex (e.g. the centre) of the diaphragm. This may advantageously allow any air in the first chamber to collect at the top of the baffle and escape through another valve. The u-shaped cross-section of the valve member may help to increase the stiffness of the valve member.

In another set of embodiments, at least a portion of the wall of the annular valve member has an increased height compared to other portions of the valve member. The height of the wall determines the stiffness of the valve member. Thus, by providing certain portions with increased height, the stiffness of the valve member may be increased in areas where it is needed, without having to increase the stiffness in areas where it is not needed. This may save on the amount of material required to make a suitable valve member. Additionally, or alternatively, portions of the valve member may have walls with increased thickness. This may also be used to increase the stiffness of the valve member. The portion of increased stiffness may be located where the valve member is least supported, for example at the portion furthest from the pivot point, or where a latch is provided. For example, a portion with increased stiffness, for example by increased wall height or by increased wall thickness, may be arranged near the central portion of the valve seat, between the provided pivot point and the latching point.

In one set of embodiments, the annular valve member comprises a plurality of support fins arranged to increase the stiffness of the annular valve member. The support fins may also increase the rigidity of the valve member to ensure that it can seal the flap valve in a suitable manner.

In one set of embodiments, the heating means arranged to heat the liquid in the first chamber is the only heating means in the liquid heating appliance. Since the mode valve allows liquid flow between the first and second chambers when the mode valve is in the open position, the appliance may advantageously require only a single heating means to heat the contents within the appliance in both modes of operation. This may help to minimize the cost of the appliance.

The liquid heating appliance may comprise any suitable means for dispensing liquid from the appliance in the second mode of operation, namely the kettle mode. In one set of embodiments, the reservoir includes a container mouth arranged to allow liquid to be poured from the appliance, and the mode valve is disposed in the partition substantially below the container mouth. The container mouth may provide a convenient way for allowing liquid to be dispensed from the appliance, which the user may already be accustomed to.

The liquid heating appliance may comprise any suitable means for stopping the operation of the heating appliance, e.g. switching off the power supply, when the temperature of the liquid in the first or second chamber reaches a desired temperature. For example, the liquid heating appliance may comprise an electronic controller connected to a thermistor which is sensitive to the temperature of the liquid in one or both of the first and second chambers. When the electronic controller detects that a certain condition has been reached, for example when boiling has been reached, the electronic controller may cut off power to the heating element to terminate heating. In a set of embodiments, the appliance further comprises a thermo-mechanical element arranged to be sensitive to a temperature within the appliance and arranged to switch off the power supply of the heating means when the thermo-mechanical element detects a predetermined temperature. The thermo-mechanical arrangement may provide a simple and inexpensive means for controlling the operation of the appliance. The predetermined temperature may for example correspond to a typical minimum temperature of steam.

A separate thermo-mechanical element may be provided to sense the temperature of the liquid heated in each of the first and second chambers, however, in one set of embodiments, the thermo-mechanical element is arranged for both the first and second chambers. This may be achieved by a suitable positioning of the thermo-mechanical element such that it is sensitive to the temperature of the liquid heated in the first and second chambers. For example, the thermo-mechanical element may be arranged in an upper portion of the second chamber and, where provided, close to the dispensing chamber. The distribution chamber provided may comprise an opening through which the vapour may escape the distribution chamber in order to trigger the thermo-mechanical element. The thermo-mechanical element may form part of a thermo-mechanical switching device. The thermomechanical element may comprise a bimetallic sensor.

The liquid heating appliance may comprise heating means, for example in the form of an immersion heating element, located within the first heating chamber to directly heat the liquid contained therein. However, in one set of embodiments, the appliance comprises a sole plate heating means arranged to heat the base of the first chamber. In another set of embodiments, a liquid heating appliance includes an electric heating element with a sheath.

The mode valve described in detail above may not be the only valve in the partition between the two chambers. For example, the diaphragm may also include a float valve. Such a float valve may comprise a float valve member arranged to float and engage a corresponding valve seat to close the valve to prevent liquid flow through the valve. Such a float valve may allow the first chamber to be refilled after dispensing liquid in the first mode without having to reopen the mode valve. Thus, the appliance may be operated repeatedly in the first mode without the need for the user to operate the valve, thereby simplifying operation by the user.

The size of the appliance, in particular the volume of the first and second chambers, may depend on the particular intended use of the appliance. In one set of embodiments, the first chamber has a volume of between 50ml and 500ml, for example 350ml. Such a volume may correspond to a suitable dispensing volume for a container such as a mug, for example. This therefore allows the user to heat an appropriate amount of water for a single cup of heated liquid. This both speeds up the heating process and reduces the amount of energy wasted, as previously described. Providing a first chamber having a volume of, for example, 350ml may allow 250ml of heated liquid to be dispensed when operating in hot cup mode. The amount of liquid dispensed from the first chamber in the hot cup mode may be variable and this may be controlled in a number of ways, for example by blocking the flow of liquid after a volume has been dispensed, or by a weir arrangement of variable height.

The liquid heating appliance may be of the wired type, i.e. the power cord may be integral with the appliance, or may be directly embedded in the appliance. However, in one set of embodiments, the liquid heating appliance is a cordless heating appliance. In another set of embodiments, the reservoirs are arranged to mate with respective power bases. The reservoir may include a cordless electrical adapter and the power base may include a corresponding cordless electrical connector. The cordless electrical adapter and corresponding cordless electrical connector on the base may allow the reservoir to be placed on the power base substantially regardless of its relative angular orientation to the power base.

The liquid heating appliance may be used to heat any suitable liquid, such as water.

Drawings

Some preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a liquid heating appliance being operated in a second mode in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the appliance shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the appliance shown in FIG. 1, focusing on the dispensing outlet;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the dispensing valve alone;

FIGS. 5A and 5B show cross-sectional views of the dispensing valve shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a detail view of the dispensing outlet showing the dispensing valve in a closed configuration;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the mode valve with a portion of the implement removed for clarity;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the mode valve with the valve member removed;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the valve member alone;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a single connecting conduit;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the appliance shown in FIG. 1, showing components within the dispensing chamber;

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the liquid heating appliance being operated in a first mode;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the appliance shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view focusing on the appliance shown in FIG. 12, focusing on the dispensing outlet;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view focusing on the valve member and its interaction with the latch arrangement;

figure 16 is a sectional view showing the configuration of components within the dispensing chamber when the appliance is operated in a first mode of operation to heat a liquid; and

fig. 17 is a sectional view showing the arrangement of components in the dispensing chamber when the appliance is stopped in the middle of operation.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 to 11 show a liquid heating appliance or a component thereof according to one embodiment of the present invention. In these views, the liquid heating appliance is operated in a second mode, namely the kettle mode. Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a liquid heating appliance 2 (appliance 2 in the following). The appliance 2 comprises a reservoir 4 arranged to sit on a power base 6. The reservoir 4 and the power base 6 can each include a cordless connector arrangement, such as a mating portion of a 360-degree connector, that allows the reservoir 4 to be placed on the power base 6 in a range of different relative angular positions. The power base 6 is powered by a power cord 8, which power cord 8 can be plugged into a suitable power supply. Although the appliance 2 shown in the figures is of the cordless type, this is not essential and the appliance may instead be of the corded type.

The reservoir 4 comprises a handle 10 for lifting the appliance 2, for example for lifting the appliance 2 to be filled with liquid or from which liquid is dispensed. The container mouth 12 is arranged on the front upper portion of the liquid reservoir 4. An openable lid 14 is provided at the top of the reservoir 4. As shown, the lid 14 may be held in a closed position by suitable engagement means, and may also include a release button 16 for releasing engagement of the lid 14 to enable filling of the reservoir 4. The lid 14 may be resiliently biased such that when the release button 16 is operated, the lid 14 automatically moves upwardly to expose the opening for filling the reservoir 4.

The appliance 2 further comprises a dispensing outlet 18 arranged on a side wall 19 of the reservoir 4. The dispensing outlet 18 is pivotally mounted within the side wall 19 as will be more clearly shown in the following figures. In the configuration shown in fig. 1, the dispensing outlet is in a non-dispensing position, which corresponds to the second mode of operation. The dispensing outlet 18 includes a recess 20 for depression by a user when pushing the dispensing outlet 18 into the non-dispensing position shown.

An "ON" button 22 is provided ON the top of the appliance 2 for opening the appliance 2. When the dispensing outlet 18 is in the non-dispensing position as shown, pressing the "ON" button 22 will cause the appliance 2 to begin heating the liquid contained therein in the kettle mode. An adjustment dial 24 is provided to adjust the volume of liquid dispensed in the first mode of operation, i.e., the hot cup mode. Adjustment of the volume of liquid dispensed in the hot cup mode may be achieved in any suitable manner. For example, as will be described in more detail below, the dispensing chamber may include means for allowing at least a portion of the liquid therein to flow back into the second chamber. The adjustment dial 24 may control the amount of liquid allowed to flow back into the second chamber, thereby controlling the amount of liquid dispensed through the dispensing outlet in the hot cup mode.

A "STOP" button 26 is also provided at the top of the appliance 2 and can be used to de-energise the heating means within the appliance 2, thereby ceasing to heat the liquid therein. This may be used, for example, if the user decides that it is no longer desired to heat the liquid.

The appliance 2 further comprises a drip tray 30 disposed below the dispensing outlet 18. When operating in the first mode, i.e., the hot cup mode, the drip tray 30 may be used to collect overflow liquid from a container filled from the dispensing outlet 18, as will be described with reference to later figures.

Fig. 2 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the appliance 2. As shown in this figure, the reservoir 4 comprises a first chamber 32, the first chamber 32 being arranged below a second chamber 34 and being separated by a partition 36. Although not apparent in this figure, the baffle 36 may have a conical shape, i.e. concave when viewed from the first chamber, with its apex at the center of the baffle 36. In the partition 36 a mode valve 38 in the form of a flap valve is arranged. The mode valve 38 includes a pivotally mounted valve member 40, the valve member 40 being arranged to pivot into and out of contact with a valve seat 42 defining an opening (not visible in this figure) through the diaphragm 36. Although a flap valve is shown, any suitable valve may be used.

A dispensing chamber 44 is disposed at the top of the second chamber 34 and is connected to the first chamber by a fluid flow path in the form of an s-shaped connecting conduit 46. The connecting conduit 46 will be described in more detail later with reference to fig. 20. The dispensing chamber 44 is connected to the dispensing outlet 18 via a conduit 48. The appliance 2 may have a predetermined maximum filling level aligned with the line 47 on the connecting conduit 46. The maximum filling level may be indicated by at least one marker on the inside of the reservoir 4 and/or on the outside of the appliance. As shown, the at least one bend of the connecting conduit 46 may be arranged above the maximum filling level 47.

The dispensing outlet 18 is mechanically coupled to the valve member 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the mechanical coupling is achieved by a mechanical linkage 50, the mechanical linkage 50 being coupled to the dispensing outlet 18 and the valve member 40. Thus, the dispensing outlet 18 is coupled to the valve member 40 such that movement of the dispensing outlet 18 causes movement of the valve member 40, thereby determining the state of the mode valve 38. Although a mechanical linkage 50 is shown, any suitable mechanical coupling may be used. For example, dispensing outlet 18 may be coupled to valve member 40 using a plurality of connection lines, which may be adapted to pull valve member 40 into and out of its open and closed positions. A sealing member 52 having a corrugated configuration is sealed to the opening through which the mechanical link 50 extends, and also surrounds the mechanical link 50 itself. This will be shown more clearly in the following figures.

Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the components concentrated around the dispensing outlet 18. As shown in this figure, a sealing member 52 extends around the mechanical linkage 50. A first portion, i.e., first end 49, of sealing member 52 seals around an opening 54 in a wall 55, wall 55 at least partially defining second chamber 34. The wall 55 also partially defines a recess in the appliance 2 in which the dispensing outlet 18 is disposed. As shown in fig. 3, the mechanical link 50 extends through an opening 54 that is larger than the extent of the mechanical link 50. Thus, the larger opening 54 allows the mechanical linkage 50 to move freely vertically and laterally within the opening, allowing the mechanical linkage to move in a manner best suited to control the valve member 40. A second portion, i.e., a second end, of the sealing member 52 seals around the mechanical link 50. The corrugated configuration of the sealing member 52 allows the second end 51 to move relatively freely with respect to the first, fixed end 49, thereby allowing the mechanical linkage 50 to move relatively freely while sealing the opening 54.

A fluid flow path is disposed between the first chamber 32 and the dispensing outlet 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid flow path enters the distribution chamber 44 through the connecting conduit 46 (shown in fig. 2) and exits the distribution chamber through the opening 64 into the conduit 48. The dispensing valve 56 is connected at one end 60 to the conduit 48 and at a second end 62 to attachment means 63 on the dispensing outlet 18 itself. In the illustrated embodiment, the dispensing valve 56 is in the form of a deformable conduit. The dispensing valve 56 is shown in a closed position in fig. 3. In the closed position, the dispensing valve 56 is deformed to form a kink 58 such that in the closed configuration, liquid is prevented from flowing through the dispensing valve 56. The dispensing valve 56 may be formed of any suitable deformable material, such as silicone. The dispensing valve 56 forms part of the dispensing outlet 18 and when in the open position, liquid will be able to be dispensed from the dispensing outlet 18 through the second end 62 of the dispensing valve 56.

By movement of the dispensing outlet 18 to the non-dispensing position shown, the dispensing valve 56 may be driven into the closed configuration shown in fig. 3. As a result of the mounting of the dispensing valve 56 described above, when the dispensing outlet 18 is pivoted into the appliance as shown, it will be deformed and form a kink 58 due to the mounting point of the dispensing valve 56. Thus, when dispensing outlet 18 is moved to the closed position, dispensing valve 56 adopts a closed configuration that inhibits the flow of liquid therethrough. As previously described, the connection of the dispensing valve 56 to the dispensing outlet 18 advantageously ensures that the dispensing valve 56 is closed when the dispensing outlet 18 is in the non-dispensing position.

The closed configuration shown in fig. 3 need not completely close the dispensing valve 56, but instead may merely correspond to a deformed state in which liquid flow is inhibited. For example, there may still be a small opening, but liquid is still inhibited from flowing therethrough due to, for example, the particular shape of the kink 58.

The dispensing outlet 18, or indeed a part of the appliance, may include additional means for deforming the dispensing valve 56. For example, a projection may be provided on dispensing outlet 18, or on the housing into which dispensing outlet 18 is retracted, which acts on dispensing valve 56 to cause deformation. Such a protrusion may help ensure that dispensing valve 56 properly forms its closed arrangement.

Although a dispensing valve 56 in the form of a deformable conduit has been shown and described above, any suitable dispensing valve may be used. For example, the dispensing valve may comprise an arrangement in which the apertures of the upstream portion of the valve are aligned with the apertures of the downstream portion of the valve when the dispensing outlet is in the dispensing position. This alignment may allow liquid to flow through the dispensing valve. When the dispensing outlet is in the non-dispensing position, the apertures of the upstream portion and the apertures of the downstream portion may be misaligned, for example, completely misaligned. This misalignment prevents liquid from flowing through the dispensing valve. For example, the downstream portion may pivot relative to the upstream portion of the valve.

Figure 4 shows the dispensing valve 56 alone. The dispensing valve 56 has at least a first portion 66 and a second portion 68. Fig. 5A and 5B show cross-sections through dispensing valve 56 at first portion 66 and second portion 68. As shown, in the first portion 66, the cross-section has a different shape than the cross-section at the second portion 68. In the first portion 66, the cross-section is in the form of a circular rectangle, while in the second portion 68, the cross-section is circular. Further, the wall thickness of the first portion is thinner than the wall thickness of the second portion 68. Although in the illustrated embodiment the areas with reduced wall thickness are aligned with portions with different cross-sections, this is not necessary, but they may be located on different portions/areas of the dispensing valve 56. Furthermore, the reduced wall thickness may be only over a part of the cross-section, for example over a side of the cross-section, and other parts of the cross-section may have the same wall thickness.

The variation in wall thickness and cross-section may at least partially define where the valve member 56 kinks when the valve member 56 bends due to movement of the dispensing outlet 18. The use of different wall thicknesses and cross-sections may reliably deform the dispensing valve 56 at the same location in a predictable manner, thereby ensuring that a stable closing condition of the dispensing valve 56 may be achieved. Furthermore, by controlling the manner in which the dispensing valve 56 deforms, more control over how the dispensing valve 56 deforms over time may be obtained, thereby ensuring the life of the dispensing valve 56.

Fig. 6 shows a cross-sectional view focusing on the dispensing outlet 18 and its associated components. The opening 54 through which the mechanical linkage 50 extends can be more clearly seen in this figure. The sealing member 52 shown in the previous figures has been removed to show the mechanical linkage 50 and its features. As shown, the mechanical linkage 50 includes a slot 70, and the second end 51 of the sealing member 52 engages into the slot 70. The groove 70 may help ensure that the sealing member 52 remains secured to the mechanical linkage 50 even as it moves throughout its range of motion.

The dispensing outlet 18 and its associated components are contained within a dispensing housing 71. The dispensing outlet 18 is pivotally mounted to the dispensing housing 71 by a pivot 74. A resilient member in the form of a spring 72 is arranged between the pivot and a mounting 76 on the dispensing outlet 18 itself. The spring 72 serves to bias the dispensing outlet 18 towards the dispensing position. The dispensing outlet 18 is held in the non-dispensing position by the push button 73, the push button 73 having to be released before the spring 72 can move the dispensing outlet 18 to the dispensing position. The push catch 73 may be released by pushing the dispensing outlet 18 towards the appliance 2, for example by pressing the recess 20. With the push button 73 released, the spring 72 will drive the dispensing outlet 18 into the dispensing position, as shown in fig. 12. The dispensing outlet 18 may be pushed back to the non-dispensing position in which the push button 73 may re-engage the dispensing outlet 18 and hold it in the non-dispensing position. The above is only one exemplary embodiment of how the dispensing outlet 18 is arranged in the appliance 2, and any other suitable arrangement may be used.

As shown more clearly in this enlarged view of dispensing outlet 18, kink 58 in dispensing valve 56 may form a ramp 78, and liquid must pass up and over ramp 78 before it can leak through dispensing valve 56. The ramp 78 may be of sufficient height to prevent unwanted liquid flow through the dispensing valve 56 without having to completely close the dispensing valve 56.

Fig. 7 shows an internal view of the appliance 2 with some components removed. The valve member 40 is in the form of a flap valve and is pivotally mounted to the diaphragm 36 by a pivot 84. A float valve 82 is provided in the center of the partition plate 36. The float valve 82 comprises a floating member arranged to engage the valve seat when the first chamber 32 is filled with liquid. When the first chamber 32 is drained, the float member falls within the float valve 82 and liquid may drain from the second chamber 36 to the first chamber 32. While this is not necessary when operating in the second mode shown in fig. 7, when operating in the first mode, i.e., the hot cup mode, the float valve 82 allows the first chamber 32 to be refilled without opening the valve member 40. The float valve 82 may thus allow for multiple hot cup operations without the user having to repeatedly operate the dispensing outlet 18 to allow liquid to enter the first chamber 32.

The outlet 80 is provided in the partition 36. A connecting conduit 46 (not shown) is connected to the outlet 80 to allow heated liquid to enter the distribution chamber 44 (not shown). The dispensing housing 71 includes an inlet 86, the dispensing valve 56 (not visible in this view) being connected to the inlet 86 on one side, and the conduit 48 (shown in fig. 3) being connected to the inlet 86 on the side visible in this view. This provides a fluid connection between the dispensing chamber 44 and the dispensing valve 56.

Fig. 8 shows a more detailed view focusing on the first chamber 32 and the partition 36. In the view shown in fig. 8, the valve member 40 has been removed to more clearly show the other components. The valve seat 42 defines an opening 88 in the diaphragm 36, and the valve member 40 is engaged to the valve seat 42 when in the closed position. When operating in the second mode of operation, opening 88 allows fluid to flow between first chamber 32 and second chamber 34. The float valve 82 is supported in the center of the opening 88 by a plurality of supports 90.

On one side of the opening 88, a pivot lever 92 is arranged, on which the valve member 40 is pivotably mounted. At the opposite end of opening 88 is a latch 94. The latch arrangement 94 is configured to retain the valve member 40 in the closed position when the appliance is operating in the hot cup mode of operation, thereby maintaining the mode valve 38 in the closed state. The latching arrangement includes a release member 96 and a latch member 97. The release member 96 and the latch member 97 are coupled together such that operation of the release member 96 results in release, e.g., retraction, of the latch member 97. The latch 94 may be configured to be released by movement of the dispensing outlet 18 from the dispensing position to the non-dispensing position. For example, a mechanical linkage 50 (not visible in this figure) may act on the release member 96 to release the latch member 97, allowing the valve member 40 to move into and out of the closed position.

As previously mentioned, the use of the latch 84 to hold the mode valve 38 in the closed position may mean that the opening 88 may be larger than an opening without the latch 84. The increased size of the opening 88 may help promote fluid circulation between the two

chambers

32, 34 in the kettle mode of operation, thereby enabling the kettle to function in the most efficient manner.

Fig. 9 shows the valve member 40 alone. The valve member 40 is annular and defines an opening 102 in its center. The annular shape need not be circular, but may have any suitable shape. An opening 102 in the center of the valve member 40 receives the float valve 82 shown in fig. 8. The valve member 40 includes a cylindrical sleeve 98 at one end that enables the valve member 40 to be pivotally mounted to the pivot lever 90 shown in fig. 8. At the other end of the valve member 40, a latch 100 and a link engagement device 101 are provided. The latch 100 is chamfered at its bottom end. This chamfer may assist the latch 100 in passing the latch member 97 of the latch arrangement 94 when the valve member 40 is moved to its closed position. The linkage engagement means 101 provides a means for connecting the mechanical linkage 50 coupled to the dispensing outlet 18 to the valve member 40. The mode valve 38 including the flap valve 40 and the valve seat 42 may be referred to as a flap valve.

The annular valve member 40 has a u-shaped cross-section defining an outer wall 103 and an inner wall 105. A plurality of support fins 104 are disposed between the outer wall 103 and the inner wall 105 and may increase the rigidity of the annular valve member 40. Further, the portion 106 of the outer wall 103 has an increased height compared to other portions of the valve member 40. Both the support fins 104 and the portion 106 with increased wall height may increase the stiffness of the valve member 40. This increased stiffness may be particularly important to ensure that the valve member 40 is able to provide a sufficiently strong seal when in the closed position. The portion 106 having the increased height is positioned equidistant between the latch 100 and the cylindrical sleeve 98. Thus, these portions 106 are disposed at the greatest distance from any external support on the valve member 40, i.e., in the area where the valve member 40 would otherwise be most likely to deform and release the seal provided.

Fig. 10 shows a single s-shaped connecting conduit 46. The s-shape of the connecting conduit 46 defines a tortuous path. This tortuous path increases the fluid flow path between the first chamber 32 and the distribution chamber 44 and thus increases the resistance to fluid flow between these

chambers

32, 44. When operating in the pitcher mode, as shown in the previous figures, although the pressure is low due to the fluid being able to enter the second chamber 34, there may be sufficient pressure in some circumstances to drive some fluid to the dispensing chamber 44. The increased flow resistance provided by the connecting conduit 46 may prevent liquid from reaching the dispensing chamber 44, which may prevent any fluid from being accidentally dispensed from the dispensing outlet 18.

In the illustrated embodiment, the tortuous path of the connecting conduit 46 includes a first bend 108 and a second bend 110 that define an s-shaped bend. Such an s-bend is particularly suitable for trapping fluid and preventing unwanted fluid flow through the connecting conduit 46 when the fluid pressure is relatively low. Although an s-bend is shown, any other form of bend that provides sufficient flow resistance may be provided. The segments of the connecting conduit 46 are supported and held fixed to each other by the support fins 112. In addition, the use of an s-bend also allows the connecting conduit 46 to connect the outlet 80 on the first chamber 32 with an inlet on the distribution chamber that is off-center from one another. At least one of the folds 108, i.e. its apex, may be arranged above the maximum filling level of the appliance, as indicated by line 47.

Fig. 11 shows a cross-section of the appliance 2, particularly focusing on the dispensing chamber 44 and the components arranged therein. As previously mentioned, the dispensing chamber 44 includes an outlet 64, i.e. a first outlet, from which liquid can flow to the dispensing outlet 18 (not shown). The dispensing chamber 44 also includes a drain outlet 126, i.e., a second outlet, which may be used to allow liquid to drain from the dispensing chamber 44 into the second chamber 34 in some instances.

The "STOP" button 26 is coupled by a coupling 122 to a valve element that includes a shut valve member 124 and a drain valve member 128. During operation of the appliance 2, for example in the jug mode as shown, the discharge valve member 128 is held against the discharge outlet 126. As a result no liquid can drain from the dispensing chamber 44. Further, shut valve member 124 is held away from outlet 64. However, when the appliance 2 is operated in the jug mode as shown, there should still be little or no liquid in the dispensing chamber 44 and therefore no liquid should leak through the outlet 64. The operation of the "STOP" button will be described in more detail later with reference to fig. 17.

The appliance 2 comprises heating means in the form of soleplate heating means 118 arranged to heat the base of the first chamber 32. The soleplate heating means 118 may be the only heating means in the appliance 2. The soleplate heating means 118 is electrically connected by means of a cable 116 to a thermo-mechanical switching means 114 arranged on top of the reservoir 4. The thermo-mechanical switching device 114 may comprise the applicant's popular R48 series steam switch. The thermo-mechanical switching device 114 is coupled to the "ON" switch and is arranged to be sensitive to the temperature within the appliance 2. The switching device 114 may be sensitive to the temperature in the second chamber 34 and the temperature in the dispensing chamber 44. When a predetermined temperature is reached, for example when a thermo-mechanical element arranged within the thermo-mechanical switching device 114 detects the predetermined temperature, the thermo-mechanical switching device 114 switches off the power supply of the soleplate heating device 118.

A thermo-mechanical switching device 114 is arranged in an upper portion of the second chamber 34. The dispensing chamber 44 may include an opening (not visible in this figure) that allows steam to escape the dispensing chamber 44 and activate the thermo-mechanical switch arrangement 114 when the appliance is operated in the first mode of operation. Furthermore, a shutter (not visible in this figure) may be coupled to the thermo-mechanical switching device 114, which allows to selectively close the opening in the dispensing chamber 44. Thus, when the thermo-mechanical switch device 114 cuts off the power to the soleplate heating device 118, the shutter may close so that steam can no longer escape from the distribution chamber 44. This may allow the thermo-mechanical switching device to be reset more quickly when operating in the first mode of operation.

The "STOP" button 26 is also coupled to the thermo-mechanical switch device 114 by a coupler 120 such that operation of the "STOP" button 26 also operates the thermo-mechanical switch device 114 to cut power to the heating appliance 118.

The operation of the appliance 2 in the jug mode will now be described with reference to figures 1 to 11. When the dispensing outlet 18 moves to the non-dispensing position, the mechanical linkage provided by the mechanical linkage 50 moves the valve member 40 to the open position such that the mode valve 38 is open. Due to the corrugated configuration of the sealing member 52, relative freedom of movement of the mechanical linkage 50 is permitted. When the dispensing outlet 18 is in the non-dispensing position, the dispensing valve 56 is also closed so that no liquid can leak through the dispensing outlet 18. Of course, the dispensing outlet 18 may already be in the non-dispensing position, for example due to prior use of the appliance in the jug mode. Thus, the mechanical coupling of the dispensing outlet 18 with the mode valve 38 controls the operating mode of the appliance 2.

The user may then press the "ON" button 22, causing the heating device 118 to be energized. Then, the liquid, e.g. water, contained in the reservoir 4 will start to heat up. In particular, the soleplate heating means 118 will heat the liquid contained within the first chamber 32. As the liquid is heated in the first chamber 32, convection will occur and the heated liquid will circulate through the openings 88 in the partition into the second chamber 34. Finally, once the liquid inside the reservoir 4 reaches a predetermined temperature, the thermo-mechanical switching means 114 will be activated, for example by the formation of sufficient steam in the reservoir 4, cutting off the power supply of the heating means 118. The reservoir 4 can then be lifted off the power base 6 and heated liquid can be dispensed through the container mouth 12.

Due to the tortuous path defined by the connecting duct 46, heated liquid will not flow into the dispensing chamber 44 in this mode of operation of the kettle. Furthermore, since the dispensing valve 56 is closed when operating in this mode, no liquid can be dispensed through the dispensing outlet 18 even if any liquid is present in the dispensing chamber 44 or any interconnecting conduit.

Fig. 12 to 17 show the appliance 2 operating in a first mode of operation, namely a hot cup mode. Fig. 12 shows the appliance 2 configured in a hot cup mode, in which the dispensing outlet 18 has been moved to a dispensing position. As shown in this figure, the dispensing position in this embodiment corresponds to the dispensing outlet 18 protruding from the wall 19 of the appliance 2.

Fig. 13 shows a cross-sectional view of the appliance 2 operating in hot cup mode. As the dispensing outlet 18 moves to the dispensing position as shown, the mechanical linkage 50 drives the mode valve 38 closed. In this position, the valve member 40 engages the valve seat 38 and seals against the valve seat 38. This therefore closes the partition 36 separating the first chamber 32 and the second chamber 34, and therefore closes the opening 88 (not visible in this figure). As a result, when the liquid is heated in the first chamber 32, it cannot circulate through the mode valve 38 into the second chamber 34, but is forced under pressure through the connecting conduit 46.

Fig. 14 shows the appliance 2 in cross-section and focuses on the dispensing outlet 18. When dispensing outlet 18 is moved to the dispensing position, dispensing valve 56 is moved to the open configuration, wherein liquid can pass through the dispensing valve and exit dispensing outlet 18 via second end 62. Liquid filling dispensing chamber 44 may thus be discharged from outlet 64 through conduit 48 and from dispensing outlet 18 through second end 62 of dispensing valve 56. This figure also more clearly shows collar 63 on dispensing outlet 18 which holds dispensing valve 56 in position in dispensing outlet 18. The figure also shows how the sealing member 52, which has a corrugated configuration, engages the groove 70 in the mechanical linkage 50. The second end 51 engages and seals around the groove 70 on the mechanical linkage 50. The push button 73, which holds the dispensing outlet in the non-dispensing position shown in fig. 1, is shown more clearly in this figure.

Fig. 15 shows a cross-sectional view focusing on the latch 94. When the valve member 40 is in the closed position, the latch member 97 (not visible in this view) latches onto the latch 100 on the valve member 40. The latch arrangement 94 includes a resilient member in the form of a spring 130. The spring 130 is arranged to bias the latch member 97 to the latched position, i.e. the position in which it latches the latch 100 to hold the valve member 40 in the closed position. The mechanical link 50 includes an actuating portion 132 at its lower end. The actuating portion 132 includes a chamfered edge for engaging the release member 96 of the latch 94. When the mechanical linkage 50 is driven downwardly towards the latching arrangement 94, the actuating portion 132 acts on the release member 96 to retract the latching member 97 against the bias of the spring 96, thereby allowing the valve member 40 to move to the closed position. Once in the closed position, the actuating portion 132 passes the release member 96 and the spring 130 drives the latch member 97 to protrude from the latch assembly 94 to retain the valve member 40 in the closed position.

When the dispensing outlet 18 is moved back to the non-dispensing position, i.e. out of the position shown in figure 15 and into the position shown in figure 1, the actuating portion 132 acts on the release member 96 when the mechanical link 50 is lifted upwards. This retracts the latch member 97 and allows the mechanical linkage 50 and the linkage valve member 40 to move upward, opening the mode valve 38. Once past the release member 96, the latch member 97 can again move to the projecting position under the bias of the spring 96.

Fig. 16 shows a cross-sectional view of the appliance 2 configured in the hot cup mode of operation, i.e. with the valve member 40 in the closed position. In this configuration, during normal operation, the discharge valve 126 is closed by the discharge valve member 128 and the outlet 64 is open, as the shut-off valve member is held away from the outlet 64. Thus, when liquid reaches the dispensing chamber 44, it will be free to exit the dispensing chamber 44 via the outlet 64 towards the dispensing outlet 18.

Fig. 17 shows a cross-sectional view of appliance 2 configured in a hot cup mode, in which "STOP" button 26 has been operated. As previously described with respect to fig. 11, the "OFF" button 26 is coupled to the thermo-mechanical switching device 114 by a coupler 120, and is also coupled to

valve members

124, 126 by a coupler 126. When the "STOP" button is operated, the valve member 124 is moved to close the outlet 64 and the drain valve member 128 is moved to open the drain outlet 126. This allows any liquid remaining in the dispensing chamber 44 to flow back into the second chamber 34 and also prevents any further liquid from being dispensed from the dispensing chamber 44 to the dispensing outlet 18 when the outlet 64 is closed. In addition, the coupling 120 causes the switching device to cut off power to the heating device 118 so that the liquid in the first chamber 32 is no longer heated.

The dispensing chamber 44 may also include a weir 134, over which the liquid must pass to exit the dispensing chamber 44, or through the outlet 64, during dispensing operations. The weir 134 may help ensure that any liquid within the connecting conduit 46, for example, any liquid remaining in the s-bend therein that was not dispensed in a previous operation, mixes with the newly heated liquid. This may help to ensure that no portion of the water dispensed from the dispensing chamber 44 is initially cold or insufficiently heated.

Operation of the appliance 2 in the first mode, the hot cup mode, will now be described with reference to figures 12 to 17. When the dispensing outlet 18 is moved to the dispensing position, as shown in FIG. 12, the mechanical coupling of the dispensing outlet 18 to the mode valve 38 through the mechanical linkage 50 causes the mode valve 38 to move to the closed position. When the dispensing outlet 18 is moved to the dispensing position, the mechanical linkage will release the latching device 94, as described in detail above, and drive the valve member 40 into engagement with the valve seat 38, thereby placing the mode valve 38 in the closed configuration. The latching arrangement 94 is used to latch and retain the valve member 40 in the closed position when the valve member 40 is moved into or reaches the closed position. Thus, the mechanical coupling of the dispensing outlet 18 with the mode valve 38 is conveniently used to control the operation of the appliance 2.

In addition to the closed mode valve 38, when the dispensing outlet 18 is moved out of the dispensing position, movement of the dispensing outlet 18 may also move the dispensing valve 56 into an open configuration in which liquid may pass through the dispensing valve 56 substantially unimpeded. This therefore causes the dispensing valve 56 to open so that liquid can be dispensed from the dispensing outlet 18.

Thus, when the dispensing outlet 18 is in the dispensing position, the mode valve 38 is closed and the dispensing valve 56 is open. When the "ON" button 22 is subsequently pressed, the liquid heating device 118 will be powered and the liquid contained within the first chamber 32 will be heated. As the temperature of the liquid increases, the pressure in the first chamber 32 will increase and the heated liquid will be forced through the connecting conduit 46 under vapor pressure. The first chamber 32 may be sized and the heating device 118 will be configured such that a pressure sufficient to overcome the resistance of the tortuous flow path provided by the connecting conduit 46 may be achieved within the first chamber. Thus, heated liquid will be forced through the connecting conduit 46 to the dispensing chamber 44.

Once in the dispensing chamber 44, the heated liquid will be able to flow out of the dispensing chamber through the outlet 64, out through the conduit 48, out through the open dispensing valve 56 and out the dispensing outlet 18. The heated liquid may fall into a receptacle provided on the drip tray 30. This process continues until the liquid in the first chamber 32 is sufficiently heated to trigger the thermo-mechanical switching device 114. The thermo-mechanical switching device 114 may be configured such that it does not cut off power to the heating device 118 until a predetermined volume of liquid is dispensed. This may be achieved by appropriately adjusting the predetermined temperature at which the thermo-mechanical switching device 114 operates. The activation of the thermo-mechanical switching device 114 may be achieved by the steam escaping the dispensing chamber 44 through an opening (not visible in this figure) so that the steam may pass through the thermo-mechanical switching device 114.

Repeated operation of the appliance 2 in the hot cup mode is facilitated by the float valve 82 allowing refilling of the first chamber 32 without opening the mode valve 38. At the end of the dispensing operation in the hot cup mode, when liquid has drained from the first chamber 32 and the pressure therein has dropped, the float member in the float valve 82 will drop and liquid from the second chamber 34 will flow into the first chamber 32 through the float valve 82. Once filled, the float member in the float valve 82 will act to close the float valve 82 and prevent liquid from flowing from the second chamber 34 to the first chamber 32.

If the user decides in the middle of a hot cup dispensing operation that they wish to STOP the process, for example because they are about to overflow their container, they may press the "STOP" button 26. As depicted in detail in fig. 17, pressing the "STOP" button 26 causes the coupling 120 to act on the switching device 114 to cut off the power to the heating device 118, thereby stopping the heating of the liquid in the first chamber 32. This will act to prevent any further liquid from flowing from the first chamber 32 to the dispensing chamber 34. Further, the coupling 122 will move the discharge valve member 128 away from the discharge outlet 126 and move the valve member 124 to close the outlet 64. Thus, after operation of the "STOP" button 26, liquid from the dispensing chamber 44 can no longer be dispensed through the dispensing outlet 44 due to the closure of the outlet 64, and liquid can drain through the discharge outlet into the second chamber 34. This therefore acts to prevent further dispensing of liquid from the dispensing outlet 18.

Claims

1. A liquid heating appliance comprising:

heating means arranged, in use, to heat liquid contained within the first chamber;

a mode valve arranged in the partition to selectively allow liquid to flow between the first and second chambers, wherein the appliance is arranged to be operable in a first mode in which the mode valve is closed and only the liquid in the first chamber is heated, and a second mode in which the mode valve is open and the liquid in both the first and second chambers is heated by the heating means;

a dispensing outlet disposed on an outer wall of the appliance and movable between a dispensing position in which the dispensing outlet is in fluid communication with the first chamber to allow liquid to be dispensed from the first chamber during the first mode, and a non-dispensing position in which liquid cannot be dispensed; wherein the dispensing outlet is mechanically coupled to the mode valve such that when the dispensing outlet is moved to the dispensing position, the mechanical coupling causes the mode valve to close and when the dispensing outlet is moved to the non-dispensing position, the mechanical coupling causes the mode valve to open.

2. The liquid heating appliance of claim 1, comprising a fluid flow path disposed between the first chamber and a dispensing outlet, wherein the flow path includes a dispensing valve configured to have at least an open configuration in which liquid may pass through the dispensing valve and a closed configuration in which liquid is inhibited from flowing through the dispensing valve; wherein the dispensing outlet is coupled to the dispensing valve such that when in the dispensing position the dispensing valve has the open configuration and when in the non-dispensing position the dispensing valve has the closed configuration.

3. A liquid heating appliance as claimed in claim 2, wherein the dispensing valve comprises a length of deformable conduit in the flow path and is configured such that in the closed position the conduit is deformed to prevent liquid flow therethrough.

4. A liquid heating appliance as claimed in claim 3, wherein the conduit comprises a region of reduced wall thickness.

5. A liquid heating appliance as claimed in claim 3 or 4, wherein the conduit comprises at least a first portion having a first cross section and a second portion having a second, different cross section.

6. A liquid heating appliance as claimed in any of claims 3 to 5, wherein the conduit is formed from silicone.

7. The liquid heating appliance according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a dispensing chamber arranged in the fluid flow path between the first chamber and the dispensing outlet such that liquid first passes through the dispensing chamber before exiting the dispensing outlet.

8. The liquid heating appliance of claim 7, further comprising a fluid connection conduit connecting the first chamber to the dispensing chamber, and wherein the connection conduit follows a tortuous path.

9. The liquid heating appliance of claim 8, wherein the tortuous path includes at least a first bend and a second bend arranged to define an s-shaped bend.

10. The liquid heating appliance of claim 9, wherein the liquid heating appliance has a predetermined maximum fill level, and wherein at least one bend in the tortuous flow path is disposed above the maximum fill level.

11. The liquid heating appliance of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical coupling comprises a mechanical linkage extending through an opening in a wall at least partially defining the second chamber, wherein the appliance further comprises a sealing member extending around the mechanical linkage, wherein a first portion of the sealing member seals around the opening and a second portion of the sealing member seals to the mechanical linkage, and wherein the sealing member is configured such that the second portion of the sealing member is movable relative to the first portion of the sealing member.

12. The liquid heating appliance of claim 11, wherein the sealing member includes a bellows structure configured to allow the second portion to move relative to the first portion.

13. A liquid heating appliance as claimed in claim 11 or 12, wherein the mechanical linkage comprises a slot into which the second portion of the sealing member engages.

14. The liquid heating appliance of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a latch arrangement configured to retain the mode valve in the closed position.

15. The liquid heating appliance of claim 14, wherein the latching arrangement is configured to be released by movement of the dispensing outlet from the dispensing position to the non-dispensing position.

16. A liquid heating appliance as claimed in claim 14 or 15 wherein the latch means is configured to be released by the mechanical coupling.

17. A liquid heating appliance according to any preceding claim, wherein the mode valve comprises a flap valve.

18. A liquid heating appliance according to claim 17, wherein the flap valve includes a valve member which pivots at a pivot point and is arranged to cooperate with a corresponding valve seat in the partition to close the flap valve and prevent liquid flow therethrough.

19. A liquid heating appliance as claimed in claim 18, wherein the valve member is an annular valve member and has a u-shaped cross-section.

20. A liquid heating appliance as claimed in claim 19, wherein at least a portion of the wall of the annular valve member has an increased height compared to other portions of the valve member.

21. A liquid heating appliance as claimed in claim 19 or 20, wherein the annular valve member comprises a plurality of support fins arranged to increase the rigidity of the annular valve member.

22. A liquid heating appliance according to any preceding claim, wherein the heating means arranged to heat liquid in the first chamber is the only heating means in the liquid heating appliance.

23. A liquid heating appliance as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the reservoir comprises a container mouth arranged to allow liquid to be poured from the appliance, and the mode valve is arranged in the partition substantially below the container mouth.

24. A liquid heating appliance according to any preceding claim, comprising a thermo-mechanical element arranged to be sensitive to temperature within the appliance and arranged to switch off power to the heating appliance when the thermo-mechanical element detects a predetermined temperature.

25. A liquid heating appliance according to any preceding claim, comprising a floor heating means arranged to heat the base of the first chamber.